The Crucial Role of Hostile Environment Readiness Training

Navigating the Unknown: The Crucial Role of Hostile Environment Readiness Training in Diverse Sectors

This article sheds light on the crucial role of HERT in preparing individuals and organisations within the International NGO, Corporate, Military, and Private Security sectors to navigate hostile environments effectively, assisting in the mitigation of risks of a security-related incident, and addressing the environment in a manner that is deemed commensurate with the threat.

The Global Landscape

Hostile Environment Readiness Training can be utilised to address a range of issues that could potentially affect the safety and security of personnel working, living, or operating within certain geographically-affected areas. Concerns associated with conflict zones, natural disasters, security threats, and pandemics certainly highlight the requirement under the provision of a ‘Duty of Care’ by organisations placing personnel into potential high-threat environments for such training, and this should not be ignored.

Areas of HERT can also be utilised away from hostile environments and included in general security training around the protection of VIPs  within Corporate environments. Subjects such as Route Planning, Residential Security Hardening, and Anti-Kidnap & Targeting Indication are prime examples.

Addressing the Need for HERT

Undertaking Hostile Environment Readiness Training (HERT) as opposed to neglecting such preparatory measures represents the difference between proactive risk management, and potential exposure to unforeseen dangers. The benefits of engaging in HERT are multifaceted and extend across various sectors, including International NGOs, Corporates, Military, and Private Security.

In a world marked by evolving security threats, natural disasters, and geopolitical uncertainties, the foremost advantage of HERT lies in the enhanced safety and security it affords individuals and organisations. HERT equips participants with the skills and mindset necessary to navigate and mitigate risks effectively. In contrast, neglecting such training leaves personnel vulnerable to the unpredictable nature of hostile environments, exposing them to potential harm and compromising overall security.

HERT Goes Beyond Mere Safety Measures

HERT also instils crucial crisis management and decision-making skills. Individuals trained in HERT are often better equipped to assess risks, make informed decisions in high-pressure situations, and implement effective crisis response plans. The absence of such training leaves individuals ill-prepared to handle the dynamic challenges of hostile environments, potentially leading to chaotic responses and increased vulnerability to threats.

Furthermore, undertaking HERT fosters adaptability and resilience in individuals, enabling them to thrive in unpredictable conditions. The training cultivates a proactive mindset, emphasising the ability to recognise and address potential threats before they escalate. Neglecting HERT, on the other hand, leaves individuals without the necessary tools to cope with unexpected challenges, hindering their capacity to adapt and increasing the likelihood of negative outcomes.

To Summarise the Article

The benefits of undertaking HERT extend far beyond immediate safety and security concerns. It is an investment in preparedness, crisis resilience, and operational efficiency that ultimately safeguards individuals, organisations, and missions in the face of unpredictable and hostile environments. The decision to undergo HERT fulfils the ‘Duty of Care’ requirements, it also represents a commitment to proactive risk mitigation, ensuring that individuals are not merely reactive but empowered to navigate the complexities of an ever-changing world.

An article by Steve Richards CMAS CAS | Special Projects Group